How to Use a Roof Rake Safely and Prevent Ice Dams

Why remove snow from your roof

Heavy snow adds load to the roof, and snow that melts and refreezes at the cold edge forms ice dams. Ice dams can push water under shingles and into the house.

Clearing the first few feet above the gutters removes the snow most likely to cause ice dams.

Safety first

Always work from the ground.

• Never climb onto a snowy roof or use a ladder in icy conditions.
• Look up for power lines before extending the pole.
• Stand clear of where the snow will slide down.
• Leave an inch or two of snow to avoid scraping the shingles.

Choosing a roof rake

Pick a pole long enough to reach the first three to four feet of roof from the ground. Lightweight aluminium poles and blades with small rollers make the work easier and protect the roof surface.